Botox Treatment: Five Common Misconceptions

Botox Treatment – FDA Approved from 2002

Botox Treatment is Safe as per FDA Testing and Approval

After years of consistent medical use and many successfully treated cases, false facts are still surfacing about Botox treatment. Botox treatment (or Botulinum Toxin) was first introduced in the 1970’s as a remedy for Crossed Eyed syndrome (Strabismus), and to this day it is still widely used to treat this ailment effectively.

In 2002, Botox was approved by the FDA as a safe, effective product for use in various cosmetic procedures in the skin care industry. Since then Botox treatment has been referred to as the solution for forehead wrinkles (Angry 11’s) and crow’s feet (Canthal) lines. As an injectable solution, Botox treatments are only conducted by fully certified doctors and dermatologists. The dosage levels used for Botox injections are regulated by strict FDA standards.

Nevertheless, after 15 years with millions of successful treatments performed and recorded and countless satisfied patients worldwide, there is still false facts and misinformation circulating about Botox usage.

Myth 1 – Botox can make your face “emotionless” When Botox is injected it works its magical charms by obstructing the signals from the nerve cells that cause muscles to contract, thus reducing that effect from occurring in the treated and closely surrounding areas. In essence your face feels more relaxed and unwanted lines – wrinkles start disappearing. Most of the results will be visible within approximately 3 days, while further improvements will continue up to 10 days.

For the record, relaxed muscles do not leave you emotionless! If the recommended amount of Botox is used, you’ll still have full control of your facial expressions. Pure joy and happiness will be the emotions you’ll be expressing once you realize the astonishing results that can be achieved.

Myth 2 – Botox is a toxic substance that circulates through your body Only small amounts of concentrated Botox are used in cosmetic procedures. The FDA limits how much can be administered for a specific body part and Certified Dermatologist’s the world over follow this protocol. In reality, you would have to administer several hundred Botox injections simultaneously to harm the recipient.

Once injected, Botox circulates within “rigid” boundaries! To be specific, it will not spread more than one centimeter from the injection point. It is advised that you don’t rub your face or receive any facial massage for at least 1 day after your Botox treatment, as it could substantially alter the positive effects.

Myth 3 – Botox is addictive, your skin will age if you discontinue its use Botox treatment is safe as per FDA testing and approval and it contains no addictive or other harmful substances. However, once you have witnessed the astounding results of this miracle treatment, you might opt for repeated treatments over time. So in essence, concern for addiction rests in your level of satisfaction with the results.

Once the effects of Botox subside, your wrinkles will begin reappearing as part of your natural aging process. To extend your rejuvenated, youthful appearance, touch-ups need to be applied every 3-6 months. You will notice the results of your treatments lasting longer due to constant muscle relaxation and shrinkage. Therefore over time, less frequent clinical touch up visits will be required to retain your desired look.

Myth 4 – Botox is the solution for all types of wrinkles Botox is used primarily to treat dynamic wrinkles (caused by frequently used facial expressions) in the upper part of the face. Common treated areas including frown lines – glabellar lines and crow’s feet. Other lines, for example the nasolabial folds and other types of static wrinkles are better treated using Dermal Fillers.

Myth 5 – Botox is only used for cosmetic purposes As already mentioned, Botox was initially used to treat Crossed Eyed syndrome. Patients who were treated for this ailment also noticed improvements on wrinkles and lines near the injection area.

Botox has received FDA approval as a safe and effective remedy for other medical conditions such as: